It was a Christmas tragedy.
Bishop Kirsten Fehrs, chairwoman of the Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD), and Bishop Georg Bätzing, head of the German Bishops’ Conference, expressed their shock and sorrow over the deadly attack at a Christmas market in Magdeburg. In a joint statement, the church leaders conveyed their sympathy to those affected by the tragedy, noting the widespread grief felt across Germany and beyond. They emphasized their thoughts and prayers for the victims, their families, and the city of Magdeburg. The bishops also offered thanks to the emergency responders and chaplains who were providing support to the injured and those traumatized by the attack.
At least five people, including a child, were killed when a 50-year-old man, identified as Taleb al-Abdulmohsen, drove an SUV through a busy Christmas market in Magdeburg on Friday evening. Over 200 people were injured, with 41 reported to be in serious condition. Al-Abdulmohsen, a Saudi national who had lived in Germany since 2006, was arrested shortly after the attack. Authorities are still investigating the motive but suspect the attack was driven by the suspect’s Islamophobic views. His social media posts indicated hostility toward Islam and promoted conspiracy theories about the supposed Islamization of Europe.
Magdeburg’s local leaders and religious figures expressed their horror at the attack. Friedrich Kramer, a regional bishop, called it a “terrible” event and offered prayers for the victims. The Magdeburg Cathedral opened its doors for the public to pay their respects in the aftermath. Meanwhile, security measures at the market have come under scrutiny, with some officials defending the emergency routes used by the attacker as essential for ambulance access. German authorities have confirmed that the attack was deliberate and have pledged to investigate further.
Al-Abdulmohsen’s social media activity revealed criticism of Germany’s tolerance toward radical Islam, support for far-right political groups, and concerns over Islamic law in Europe. Despite the ongoing investigation, Interior Minister Nancy Faeser described the suspect as having “Islamophobic” views. This attack is reminiscent of the 2016 Berlin Christmas market attack, which prompted heightened security measures at such events, including concrete barriers and an increased police presence. However, experts note that ensuring complete protection at these public events is impossible.
In response to the Magdeburg attack, cities across Germany heightened security at Christmas markets. Increased police patrols were deployed, and safety measures such as bag bans and additional barriers were implemented at other markets. The community in Magdeburg came together to mourn the victims, with residents leaving flowers at a memorial near St. John’s Church. The floral tribute grew throughout the day, a sign of solidarity as the city, still reeling from the tragedy, honored the lives lost in the senseless attack.